Developmental Training Area

The program in Developmental Psychology began in 1999 and currently has 6 core-faculty representing research interests in cognitive development and social development, as well as emphasis in infancy through emerging adulthood. At this time, the program is directed by Dr. Nicole Campione-Barr.

The major emphasis of our program is research training. Graduate students engage in research with their primary advisor beginning in their first semester in the program and take supporting coursework. They gain a strong background in statistics and research methodology, in addition to social and cognitive development. The department provides financial support to students (tuition waiver plus a monthly stipend) through research, teaching assistantships or fellowships. Students are supported for at least five years and, generally, throughout their graduate training if they are in the program longer than five years. Questions should be directed to

Evolution and Cognitive DevelopmentPrimarily, our lab does longitudinal research on development of mathematical cognition in children, and associated learning disabilities. Our studies in evolution currently focus on sex differences in vulnerability to stressors.Lab Flyer

Infant Cognition LabOur research examines what infants and young children know about the world around them. For example, what do they know about agents' intentions and perceptions? What do infants and young children know about social interactions? What do infants know about physical objects and substances? By finding out answers to questions like these, We hope to better understand how infants and preschoolers acquire knowledge and how this development influences cognition more generally.Flyer

Peer Relations LabThe research conducted by the peer relations lab is aimed at learning about the friendships and other peer relationships of children and adolescence. There is a particular focus on gender differences in these relationships and on how these relationships impact psychological adjustment.